Swivel lip applicator

ABSTRACT

An applicator and dispensing device adapted to enclose a solid product within a holder which is enclosed by an outer shell. The outer shell can rotate relative to the holder via a hinge and then push a support cup that contains the product along a channel and through an orifice in the holder, thus exposing the product for use. In an embodiment, the holder contains an indentation or hole that locks with a corresponding peg located the outer shell when closed. In an embodiment, the holder and outer shell are prevented from moving longitudinally relative to one another by virtue of configuring the lower position of the guideway such that it beneficially locks with the guide when the device is in a closed position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/646,354, filed Jul. 11, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of PCTApplication No. PCT/US2016/055995, filed Oct. 7, 2016, entitled “FLIPLIP APPLICATOR”, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/056,643 filed Feb. 29, 2016, entitled “FLIP LIPAPPLICATOR”, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/239,613, filed Oct. 9, 2015, entitled “SWIVEL LIPAPPLICATOR.” The entire contents of each of the above applications areincorporated herein by reference.

INTRODUCTION

Embodiments described herein relate generally an applicator or adispensing device, and more particularly, to an applicator or adispensing device for a solid or semi-solid cosmetic, medical, topicalor fragrance product. Examples include, but are not limited to, alipstick, solid ointment, eye liner, solid fragrance, topical ointment,or insect repellent.

Common packaging for solid lipsticks and similar products currently onthe market can be characterized by a few design groups. For instance,one common packaging design comprises a base containing a solid lipstickembedded in a built-in cup. The base is generally covered with a tightlyfit cap that is removable for application. Though this packaging type iscomparatively inexpensive, removal of the cap often damages the embeddedlipstick.

A similar common packaging design comprises a lipstick base, a removablecap and a set of components that rotates the base to allow the productto emerge perpendicularly to the motion of rotation. This motion usuallyrequires a user to set the cap aside and use two hands to rotate thebase in two opposite directions. This packaging design is more expensiveas it typically requires four or more components for assembly.

Yet another common packaging design comprises a lipstick base, aremovable cap and a set of components that allows a user to laterallyslide the product through an orifice in a lipstick holder. Thismechanism, however, is difficult to control and adjust the amount ofproduct that the user wishes to expose. A variation to this slide actionutilizes a rack and pinion concept. A toothed rack is attached to theinternal lipstick holder and a round wheel gear extends through theoutside shell. The consumer rotates the gear with the thumb and througha complimentary set of gear teeth forces the internal holder to push theproduct in a lateral motion. This design, while allowing the consumer touse one hand to extend and retract the lipstick, still requires the userto remove the cap, and it is frequently difficult to use the slide orrotate the wheel.

Another package represented by U.S. Pat. No. 7,780,037 teaches a coverthat is laterally extended relative to a product-containing base. Itthen is rotated 180° when fully extended and again laterally adjusted toan appropriate length suitable to apply cosmetic product. In order toprevent the unit from unintentionally extending, a latch or otherstandard closure must be incorporated into the cover and base Thisaction cannot be easily conducted with one hand as the consumer mustforcibly pull apart the cover and base with two hands, then rotate and,then laterally compress the unit.

Furthermore, the empty package would need to be filled in an openposition. Fragile product would be completely exposed as the coverrotates over it, and while the cover and base contract into a closedposition. This set of actions present opportunities for damage to theproduct.

If the product needs to be sealed by the consumer, and the productformulation requires air or water tight closures, the consumer wouldneed to carefully and with a steady hand, place a sealing cap about thefully extended and unprotected product so as again not to damage it.

Embodiments described herein provide an inexpensive applicator or adispensing device that in most cases described, can be opened, adjustedand closed with one hand and without the need for removing a cap.Furthermore, embodiments described herein allow the device to be filledsafely, without damaging the product or, in order to address the needsof special formulations of products, to be repeatedly sealed with a plugby the consumer without concern for inadvertently breaking the product.In one or more embodiments, a product support such as a cup containing asolid or semi-solid product is enclosed within the cavity of anelongated holder made up of at least two opposing flat sides and twoopposing exposed sides. The cavity and the holder share a commonlongitudinal axis. The cavity is exposed to the outside through anorifice at a top end of the holder. The holder contains a pair of slotsthat are parallel to the holder's longitudinal axis, and that penetratesand extends along its flat sides.

One embodiment provides an applicator comprising a body having a firsttop surface including an opening, a channel extending through the bodyaway from the opening of the first top surface, and a first side and asecond side including a first slot and a second slot respectively cutthrough the first and second sides; a cover having a second top surface,a first arm and a second arm extending away from the second top surface,and a first and second hinges installed on the first and second armsrespectively; and a support cup having a side wall, an inner-bodyopening configured to receive a product, and a first and second recessesinscribed on opposite sides of the side wall; wherein the support cup isslidably fitted inside the channel of the body and the cover is hingedlycoupled to the body via the first and second hinges of the cover; andwherein the first and second hinges protrude through the first andsecond slots of the body and engage with the first and second recessesof the support cup, respectively, and the cover and the support cup areslidable together in a longitudinal direction along the channel of thebody.

In one embodiment, there is an outer shell that comprises a cover at anupper section, from which extend two flat arms comprising a lowersection. A set of rotational hinges protrudes from the inner surface ofthe shell arms and though the holder slots. The hinge is connected tothe cup via a pair of holes or recesses within the cup. In its closedposition, the two arms of the shell cover the two sides of the holderand the shell cover is positioned over the holder's orifice.

One embodiment includes a peg and groove feature that restricts theholder to a rotational motion relative to the shell when the device isclosed. The exposed sides of the holder are open to the outside. When aforce is applied to the front of the holder, the holder and cuprestrictedly swivels in a circular motion relative to the shell, withthe hinges as the centers of rotation. When the shell is thus rotated,the shell's cover exposes the holder's orifice.

In this embodiment, the holder, may be fitted with an indentation inplace of a groove, such that it engages with the peg when the unit isclosed, thus again restricting lateral movement. The engagement betweenthe indentation and peg completely prevents the shell from movinglaterally relative to the holder and requires a small amount of force topush out the shell relative to the holder. This design acts as a closurefor controlling the rotational movement.

Another embodiment incorporates a locking mechanism between the regionaround the outer shell's rotational hinges such that it engages withindentations built within the lower portion of the holder such that itprevents lateral movement until after the device is rotated open.

One embodiment includes an inbuilt set of shell guides the move throughdedicated guide ways built into the holder that restrict the shell frommoving along the holder's longitudinal axis until the shell rotatesapproximately 180 degrees relative to the holder. When the shell thusrotates to 180 degrees, the user pushes the shell towards the orificeand the shell's guides can move along the holder's guide ways, and indoing so push the cup and product through the holder orifice, thuspresenting the product for use.

In one embodiment, there is a mechanical or magnetic closure thatsecures the shell cover to the holder when the device is in a closedposition and prevents it from rotating until a desire force is exertedto the front of the holder.

One embodiment prevents the holder and shell from moving relative toeach other along their shared longitudinal axis while the user appliesthe product. In this embodiment, the arms of the shell are sufficientlyflexible such that the user can squeeze the arms together so that theyengage with the holder's flat sides such that the components are held inplace relative to one another.

It is preferred for the holes or recesses in the cup to align with theslots in the holder during assembly so that the shell's hinge can engagewith the shell's hinges. A preferred method to prevent the cup fromrotating relative to the holder during assembly is to design the cup andholder cavity with non-circular cross-sectional shapes such as a squareor an oval.

One embodiment is such that the shell hinge engages the cup on only oneside of the applicator.

One embodiment comprises a product container platform that holds theproduct by a set of support columns or a stake that embeds into theproduct. The product may also be embedded in a foam applicator.

A preferred method to fill the applicator with product is to fullyassemble the applicator and insert the product into the cup when the cupis positioned close to the orifice of the holder.

One embodiment comprises a sealing closure comprising a roof and a tube,inserted into the holder such that the tube surrounds the product,engages the outer rim of the cup, and seals the product against theoutside environment.

One embodiment comprises a two-piece unit comprising an outer shell anda holder that is connected to the cup via a set of living hinges. As theshell rotates relative to the cup and holder, the hinges distort toallow the rotation.

Exemplary material for manufacturing one embodiment comprises a plasticsuch as ABS or PE. Parts may also be selectively constructed of a metalsuch as aluminum, a composite, or paper. A two-piece embodiment requiresthe holder and cup to consist of a flexible material such aspolypropylene.

One or more embodiments provide the advantage of a device capable ofdispensing a product using a low cost package while limiting exposure ofthe product to the environment when it is not in use.

One or more embodiments provide the advantage of a very low cost samplerdispensing device.

One or more embodiments provide the advantage of a device that presentsa novel method to enclose and dispense product, which is aestheticallypleasing, and whose design offers large flat surface areas for packagedecoration.

One or more embodiments provide the advantage of a device that allowsthe user to dispense product using only one hand.

One or more embodiments provide the advantage of a container that may befilled with a product in an efficient manner.

One or more embodiments may contain a solid, semisolid, or foam embeddedlipstick. The device may also contain a solid perfume, topicalointments, eye and face makeup, as well as non-cosmetic applications astopical cleaners, glues, and wax as typically used repair furnituresurfaces.

One or more embodiments provide an applicator comprising a body having afirst top surface including a top opening, a bottom surface including abottom opening and a pair of slits, a channel extending from the topopening to the bottom opening, and a first side and a second sideincluding a first slot and a second slot respectively cut through thefirst and second sides rising from edges defined by the first and secondsides and the bottom surface; and a cover having a second top surface, afirst arm and a second arm extending away from the second top surface,and a platform connected to the cover via one or more living hinges;wherein the platform is slidably inserted into the channel of the bodyvia the bottom opening and is configured to receive a product using astake protruding from the platform; and wherein the cover is hingedlycoupled to the platform and the body via the living hinges and isslidable in a longitudinal direction along the channel via the first andsecond slots of the body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of key components of an applicator device inits most basic form, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 2A-2D depict isometric exploded views showing the key componentsof the applicator device.

FIGS. 3A-3D are isometric views showing assembly of the basic componentsof the applicator device.

FIGS. 4A-4E are a sequential set of isometric and correspondingcross-sectional views showing basic operation in opening the applicatordevice.

FIGS. 5A-5E are a sequential set of isometric and correspondingcross-sectional views showing basic operation in closing of theapplicator device.

FIGS. 6A-6D are cross-sectional views detailing the angular features ofthe outer shell's cover and the holder's top surface when closing theapplicator device.

FIGS. 7A-7E are various views of the applicator device incorporating apeg and groove mechanism.

FIGS. 8A-8 Bare isometric views showing the applicator deviceincorporating a guide and guideway system.

FIGS. 9A-9E are a sequential set of cross-sectional side views showingbasic operation of the guide and guideway system as incorporated in theapplicator device.

FIGS. 10A-10B show respectively isometric and partial sectional sideview of the applicator device incorporating a closure mechanism in apartially open position.

FIGS. 11A-11B show respectively isometric and partial sectional sideview of the same applicator device as described in FIGS. 10A-10 Bin aclosed position.

FIGS. 12A-12D show a set of front views illustrating how pressureexerted on the sides of the outer shell supports the holder during use.

FIGS. 13A-13D show a set of isometric and front views of the applicatordevice incorporating a set of notches and protrusions to accentuate thegrip between the outer shell and the holder when pressure is applied tothe outer shell's sides.

FIGS. 14A-14B show isometric views of the holder and the support cup ofthe applicator device having an oval shaped support cup andcorresponding oval shaped orifice and channel.

FIGS. 15A-15B show isometric views of the holder and the support cup ofthe applicator device having a square shaped support cup and acorresponding square shaped orifice and channel.

FIG. 16A-16B show isometric views of a platform containing a productusing a stake.

FIG. 17A-17B show isometric views of a platform containing a productusing four support columns.

FIG. 18 shows an isometric view of a foam applicator assembled to theplatform.

FIGS. 19A-19B are isometric views of the applicator device incorporatinga seal.

FIGS. 20A-20D are top isometric and cross-sectional views of theapplicator device illustrating assembly of the seal along with the othercomponents of the applicator device.

FIGS. 21A-21D show an exemplary two-piece applicator device according toan embodiment.

FIGS. 22A-22B are cross-sectional front view of the two-piece applicatordevice containing a product in an open position.

FIGS. 23A-23F show a sequence of isometric drawing showing completeassembly of the two-piece applicator device in various positions as itprogresses from a completely closed position to an open position.

FIGS. 24A-24B are top and bottom isometric views respectively of theholder of the two-piece applicator device illustrating opening of theslits to allow insertion of the outer shell.

FIGS. 25A-25E show a sequence of isometric drawing of the two-pieceapplicator device as the outer shell is assembled to the holder.

FIGS. 26A-26G are various views of embodiments that prevent a holderfrom moving longitudinally relative to a shell when the device isclosed.

FIGS. 27A-27F depict another configuration that prevent a holder andouter shell from moving longitudinally relative to one another by virtueof configuring the lower position of the guideway such that it lockswith the guide when the device is in a closed position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECT EMBODIMENTS

Illustrative embodiments relate to an applicator or a dispensing deviceadapted to enclose a solid or semi-solid cosmetic, medical, topical, orfragrance product including, but not limited to, a lipstick, solidointment, eye liner, solid fragrance, topical ointment, or insectrepellant.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an applicator device 100, according to anembodiment, comprises an outer shell 200, a holder 300, a product 400and a support cup 500. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the outer shell 200connects to the holder 300 via a first hinge 224 a and a second hinge224 b (hidden in FIG. 1, described in more detail below) such that theouter shell 200 and the holder 300 can rotate relative to one anotheraround an axis through the hinges.

The applicator device 100 as shown in FIG. 1 is configured to packageand dispense the product 400 (e.g., a solid lipstick). The device is, ofcourse, not restricted to this application and, in fact can beconfigured and dimensioned to contain any number of solid, semi-solid,or liquid products including skin care products, foam encapsulatedliquids, or fragrances.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2D, components that are generalized in FIG. 1are described in greater detail.

FIG. 2A shows the outer shell 200 comprising a cover 210 having atopside 212 and an underside 214. The outer shell 200 further comprisesa first arm 220 a and a second arm 220 b extending perpendicularly fromthe underside 214 of the cover 210 and a front opening 230 and a backopening 240. Lengths of the first arm 220 a and the second arm 220 bextend sufficiently to enclose the holder 300 in a manner to bedescribed below. The first and second arms respectively comprise a firstinterior 222 a and a second interior 222 b. These interiors may bedesigned with relatively flat surfaces.

FIG. 2A shows an S-S′ axis that extends through the cover 210 in adirection parallel to the front and back openings and the first andsecond arms. At the far ends of the respective first and secondinteriors 222 a and 222 b, a first hinge 224 a and second hinge 224 bextends perpendicularly from the first and second interiors. The hingesare constructed at an approximate midpoint between the front opening 230and the back opening 240. The overall configuration of the outer shell200 as described above allows the holder 300 to rotate out of the outershell 200 via the front opening 230 and the back opening 240, which arecorrespondingly dimensioned.

FIG. 2B shows the holder 300 comprising a top surface 310 with anorifice 312 that leads into a channel 314 for inserting a product. Theholder 300 has a first side 320 a, a second side 320 b, a front side 330and a back side 340. A first slot 322 a and a second slot 322 b are cutthrough the walls of the respective first and second sides. The lengthof the holder 300, the length of the channel 314 and the lengths of thefirst and second slots 322 a and 322 b, run parallel to an R-R′ axis andextend approximately to a bottom surface 350.

FIG. 2C shows the product 400, in this case being a cylindrically shapedlipstick bullet with a slanted top surface designed for easy applicationto the lips. This product shape and form is merely an example of astandard lipstick shape found in the market place and the embodimentscan package and dispense any number of product shapes and sizes and isnot limited to any one shape as long as the product can be inserted andcontained within the channel 314 of the holder 300.

FIG. 2D shows the support cup 500 which in this case is a circular cupsurrounded by a side wall 510, a top opening 520 and a bottom platform530. A first recess 512 a and a second recess 51 b are inscribed intothe opposing sides of the side wall 510, with respective opening shapesand dimensions such that the outer shell's first and second hinges 224 aand 224 b can be inserted within and rotate relative to the support cup500. The cross-sectional shape of the support cup 500 is such that itcan be linearly inserted through the orifice 312 and move along thechannel 314 of the holder 300. Though the support cup 500 in FIG. 2D ispresented as a circular cup, it will be shown below that there are othersuitable configurations for the support cup 500.

With regard to the components as shown and described in reference toFIGS. 2A-2D, FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate how the four components of theembodiment may be fit together.

FIGS. 3A-3D also show a preferred (but not required) order in which toassemble these components.

FIG. 3A shows the assembly of the support cup 500 with the holder 300.The support cup 500 is inserted into the orifice 312 and into thechannel 314 with the top opening 520 of the support cup 500 facingupward such that the first recess 512 a is aligned with the holder'sfirst slot 322 a and the second recess 512 b (hidden from view) is alsoaligned with the holder's second slot 322 b (also hidden from view). Thefirst and second recesses are visible through the first and secondslots, respectively, after the assembly. The support cup 500 can movefreely through the channel 314 along the axis R-R′.

FIG. 3B shows how the outer shell 200 may be assembled to the holder 300and the support cup 500. In particular, FIG. 3B shows the outer shell200, the holder 300, and the support cup 500 at the moment of theassembly. The first and second recesses 512 a and 512 b, which have beenaligned with the holder's first and second slots 322 a and 322 b,respectively, are also aligned with the first and second hinges 224 aand 224 b of the outer shell 200. Though it is not show in this figure,it should be assumed that the cup second recess 420 b is aligned withthe holder second slot 214 b of the holder. Furthermore, the presentembodiment reveals a holder top surface 210 and a shell cover 110 thatare designed to be angled to secure the device when it is in a closedposition. This detail will be explained further in FIGS. 6A-6D. As shownwith FIG. 3B, the width of the holder 300 as defined by theperpendicular distance between the holder's first side 320 a and theholder's second side 320 b is equal to or slightly less than theperpendicular distance between the first interior 222 a and the secondinterior 222 b of the respective first and second arms of the outershell 200. Moreover, the lengths of the first and second arms 220 a and220 b of the outer shell 200 are such that they substantially cover theheight of the holder's first and second sides. Lastly, the outer shell'sfront opening 230 and the back opening 240 are such that the holder 300can be easily positioned between the outer shell's first and secondarms.

In order to allow insertion of the outer shell's first and second hingesthrough the holder's slots such that they may engage with the supportcup's recesses, the outer shell's arms may need to be flexed outwards toaccommodate the protrusion lengths of the hinges and then return totheir original shape. Thus, the outer shell's first and second arms maybe composed of a suitably flexible material to allow such flexing butwith a material memory such that the flexing will not permanentlydistort the shape of the outer shell.

FIG. 3C illustrates a cutaway view shown at an oblique angle to theother three views. FIG. 3C illustrates in detail how the first hinge 224a is inserted through the first slot 322 a and engages with the firstrecess 512 a. Though hidden from FIG. 3C, the second hinge 224 b issimilarly and simultaneously inserted through the second slot 322 b andengages with the second recess 512 b.

An exemplary design of the first and second hinges 224 a and 224 b is acylindrical shape whose length is defined as the amount of protrusionfrom the first and second interiors of the respective arms and whosediameter is defined such that the hinges can easily fit through theholder's slots and engage with the support cup's recesses. Thecorresponding support cup's recesses may likewise have cylindrical shapeand have diameters that are approximately equal to those of the hinges.Furthermore, the length of the hinges are such that they can fullyengage the support cup's recesses having protruded through therespective thicknesses of the holder's first and second sides. Thisdesign allows any force applied to the outer shell's hinges to directlytranslate into a corresponding movement of the support cup along theholder's channel 314 in a manner that will be detailed later.

FIG. 3D shows the outer shell's hinges having fully engaged with thesupport cup's recesses. Once fully engaged, the support cup ispositioned proximal to the top surface 310 of the holder 300 such thatthe support cup 500 is accessible through the holder's orifice 312. Theproduct 400 is shown being inserted into the support cup 500.

The sequence for assembly of these foregoing components within the scopeof the embodiments is not limited to that shown with respect to FIGS.3A-3D. For example, the product 400 and the support cup 500 may bepreassembled before the support cup 500 is inserted into the holder 300or the outer shell 200 may first be assembled to the holder 300 beforeinserting the support cup 500 into the holder 300.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4E, a preferred sequence employed in openingthe applicator device 100 and accessing the product 400 is illustrated.Each of the FIGS. 4A-4E shows an isometric illustration of a sequentialsegment and a corresponding two-dimensional side view of the samesequential segment.

FIG. 4A shows a closed position of the applicator device 100. The upperisometric illustration shows how the outer shell 200 completely coversand protects the product 400 within the holder 300. The lowertwo-dimensional side view shows the applicator device 100 in the sameclosed position and how the product 400 is positioned in the support cup500. For sake of clarity, the product 400 and the support cup 500 aredepicted in dashed lines.

FIG. 4B shows the outer shell 200 rotating relative to the holder 300about the axis defined by the first hinge 224 a and second hinge 224 band the orifice 312 of the holder 300 is exposed. The direction ofrotation is such that the outer shell's back opening 240 moves away fromthe back side 340 of the holder 300. It will be shown below in detailwith respect to FIGS. 6A-6D how the outer shell 200 is prevented fromrotating in a direction such that the outer shell's back opening 240 andholder's back side 340 approach each other.

FIG. 4C shows the applicator device 100 after the outer shell 200 andthe holder 300 have rotated 180 degrees relative to each other, fromtheir original positions. The holder 300 is now ready to be movedlongitudinally relative to the outer shell 200 along the R-R′ axis. Aswas shown in FIG. 3C describing the assembly of the applicator device,the outer shell's hinges 224 a and 224 b protrude through the holder'sfirst slot 322 a and second slot 322 b and are engaged with the firstand second recesses of the support cup 500. Thereafter, the product isready to be propelled by the support cup 500 and the outer shell 200through the holder's channel 314 and along the holder's first and secondslots and in a direction parallel to the R-R′ axis.

FIG. 4D shows the applicator device 100 after the outer shell 200 andthe support cup 500 have begun to move simultaneously along the channel314 in the direction indicated by the arrow.

Finally, FIG. 4E shows the applicator device 100 in a fully openposition. The product 400 is fully exposed and ready to be applied. Itshould be understood that a normal use of the product 400 does notrequire it to be completely open; rather, a user may be able to accessand use the product 400 even if it is only partially exposed.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5E, a preferred sequence employed in closingthe applicator device 100 is illustrated. The sequence illustrated inFIGS. 5A-5E shows the same components and parts as illustrated in FIGS.4A-4E but in a sequentially reversed order.

FIG. 5A shows the applicator device 100 in a fully open position. FIGS.5B and 5C show the outer shell 200, whose hinges are engaged with thesupport cup's recesses, pulling the product-filled support cup away fromthe orifice 312 and into the channel 314 in the direction indicated bythe arrow. FIG. 5D shows the outer shell 200 rotating relative to theholder 300 and product-filled support cup toward a closed position.Finally, FIG. 5E shows the applicator device 100 in a closed position,identical to what is shown in FIG. 4A. The outer shell 200 is preventedfrom rotating further by virtue of the angular designs of the holder'stop surface 310 and the outer shell's cover 210 as will be detailed inreference to FIGS. 6A-6D.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6D, a set of side cross-sectional views thatemphasizes the angular orientations of the top portions of the outershell 200 and the holder 300 is illustrated.

FIG. 6A shows the angular offset Q of the outer shell's cover 210relative to the outer shell's longitudinal axis S-S′. FIG. 6B shows theangular offset P of the holder's top surface 310 relative to theholder's longitudinal axis R-R′. FIG. 6C shows the applicator device 100as the outer shell 200 rotates about the outer shell's hinges 224 a and224 b and as the outer shell cover's underside 214 is about to fullyclose over the holder's top surface 310. The angular offsets Q and Pshould be dimensioned such that when the outer shell 200 is almostclosed as illustrated in FIG. 6C, an edge 360 defined between the topsurface 310 and the back side 340 of the holder 300 does not interferewith the outer shell cover's underside 214. The outer shell's backopening 240 rotates into the holder's back side 340 until the outershell 200 is forced to make a full stop as the outer shell cover'sunderside 214 comes in contact with the holder's top surface 310. It isthe contact between these two surfaces that prevents the outer shell 200from rotating further. The axes R-R′ and S-S′ incidentally approximatelycoincide when the applicator device 100 is in this position.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A-7C, a set of views of the applicator device100 incorporating a peg and groove mechanism that prevents the holderfrom moving laterally relative to the outer shell when the applicatordevice is in a closed position, is illustrated.

FIG. 7A shows an isometric drawing of the holder 300 oriented such thatthe front side 330 can be viewed. FIG. 7A further shows a groove 370 ofa given depth inscribed in the form of a circular arc, into the holder'sfirst side 320 a. An end of the arc starts from the holder's back side340 and extends toward and eventually terminates at the first slot 322a.

FIG. 7B shows an isometric drawing of the outer shell 200 oriented suchthat the back opening 240 can be viewed. The outer shell comprises a peg270 of a given height protruding from the first interior 222 a of theouter shell's first arm 220 a. In this illustration, the peg 270 isdepicted as having a cylindrical shape. The height of the peg 270 issuch that it engages with the holder's groove 370 and moves through thegroove 370 unobstructed. The peg 270 may be formed into other generalshapes as long as it can engage with and move through the groove 370unobstructed. This groove and peg mechanism is constructed at a locationsuch that when the outer shell 200 is rotated toward the holder 300 asthe applicator device 100 approaches a closed position, the peg 270 willengage with the groove 370 at the holder's back side 340.

The groove's arc is such that its radial center coincides with thecenter of rotation of the outer shell 200 relative to the holder 300.Though this embodiment assumes the holder 300 comprising a groove andthe outer shell 200 comprising a peg, in an alternative embodiment, thepeg can be located on the holder's first side and the groove inscribedinto the outer shell's first arm's first interior.

Even further, although only one set of peg and groove mechanism isdescribed heretofore, a second or even multiple sets of the peg andgroove mechanism may be incorporated into an applicator in order tofurther secure the holder to the outer shell. For instance, a peg can belocated on both the first interior and second interior of the outershell and a groove can be located on both the first side and second sideof the holder.

FIGS. 7C-7E illustrates cross-sectional views of a set of threesequential segments describing how in closing the applicator device 100,the peg 270 engages with the groove 370 and secures the applicatordevice 100 in its closed position. The three sequence segments eachshows the holder 300, the outer shell 200 and a dashed outline of thesupport cup 500 within the holder 300.

First, 7C shows the outer shell 200 closing against the holder 300. Thefirst hinge 224 a is engaged with the support cup's first recess 512 aand the support cup is at the bottom of the holder's channel 314. Thepeg 270 has not yet reached the location where it contacts the groove370. The outer shell 200 is rotating about the center of rotation asdefined by the outer shell's hinges 224 a and 224 b.

Second, 7D shows the same rotating outer shell 200 as it moves closer tothe holder 300. Here, the peg 270 has entered the groove 370. The radialdimension of the groove 370 is approximately the same as the radialmovement that the peg 270 travels relative to the center of rotation.

Lastly, 7E shows the applicator device 100 in a closed position. The peg270 has moved along the groove 370 and arrived at a contact point 380.At this point, the peg 270 prevents the outer shell 200 from movinglongitudinally upwards relative to the holder 300. The angular design asdescribed in 6 a-6 d prevents the shell from rotating further toward theholder front. Therefore, the shell is locked in place and is restrictedto movement in the direction toward its back opening.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A-9E, a further embodiment incorporating a guideand guideway that prevents the outer shell from moving longitudinallyrelative to the holder is illustrated. The guide and guideway systemprevents the holder 300 from rotating relative to the outer shell 200after the hinges move longitudinally along the first and second slots322 a and 332 b. In this embodiment, the applicator device 100 is morestable when opening and using the applicator device 100.

FIG. 8A shows an isometric drawing of the holder 300 oriented such thatthe front side 330 can be viewed. The holder's first side 320 a isinscribed with a guideway 390 that runs parallel to and borders eitherside of the first slot 322 a. The longitudinal length of the guideway390 approximately extends from the holder's bottom surface 350 to afirst slot top 324 a. The depth of the guideway does not exceed thethickness of the wall forming the holder's first side 320 a. Theguideway 390 is divided into an upper portion and a lower portion. Theupper portion 392 of the guideway 390 is of a width U and length T. Thelower portion 394 of the guideway 390 is proximal to the holder's bottomsurface 350 and has a width V and length W. The width V is greater thanthe width U.

FIG. 8B shows an isometric drawing of the outer shell 200 oriented suchthat the back opening 240 can be viewed. From the outer shell's firstinterior 222 a protrudes a guide 290 surrounding the first hinge 224 ahaving a width X and length Y. The protruding height of the guide 290 isless than that of the hinge 224 a but sufficient such that when theouter shell 200 and the holder 300 are assembled, the guide 290 canengage with the upper portion and lower portion of the guideway 390.

As will be detailed in reference to FIGS. 9A-9E, the guide 290 isdimensioned such that it can rotate around the axis of the hinges whilethe support cup 500 is proximal to the holder's bottom surface 350 andwithin the lower portion area defined by width V and length W. Thelength Y of the guide is dimensioned to be greater than the width U ofthe upper portion. The width X of the guide is dimensioned to be lessthan or equal to the width U of the upper portion. Therefore, the guide290 limits rotation of the outer shell 200 relative to the holder 300when the guide 290 is located within the lower portion 394. It furtherlimits the guide 290's longitudinal movement when the guide 290 islocated in the upper portion 392.

FIGS. 9A-9E illustrate the interaction between the guide 290 and theguideway 390. In FIGS. 9A-9E, the outer shell 200 is depicted astransparent in order to clearly show the interaction of the guide 290within the guideway 390. In these drawings, the bold solid lines depictthe position of the outer shell's outer boundaries and the outer shell'scover 210, the position of the guide 290 and the position of the firsthinge 224 a. The thin solid lines depict the holder's outer boundaries,the first slot 322 a, and the guideway 390. The dashed line shows theposition of the outer borders of the support cup 500.

In FIG. 9A, the applicator device 100 is in a fully closed position. Thesupport cup 500 is proximal to the holder's bottom surface 350 andconnected to the outer shell 200 via the hinges 224 a and 224 b asdescribed hitherto. The guide 290 is completely contained within thevolume of the lower portion and has a width X and length Y. As wasdescribed above in reference to FIGS. 7A-7C, incorporation of the peg270 and the groove 370 prevents the outer shell 200 from moving in alongitudinal direction relative to the holder 300 while in the closedposition.

FIG. 9B shows the outer shell 200 rotating away from the holder 300. Asmentioned previously, the lower portion 394 of the guideway 390 asdefined by the width V and length W, allows the guide 290 to rotatewithin its confined space. The outer shell's peg 270 is completelydisengaged from the holder's groove 370.

FIG. 9C shows the outer shell 200 after it has rotated approximately 90degrees relative to the holder 300. Because the length Y of the guide290 is greater than the width U of the upper portion 392 of the guideway390, it cannot move longitudinally along the guideway's upper portion392.

FIG. 9D shows the outer shell 200 having rotated 180 degrees relativethe holder 300. Now, since the width X is less than the width U, theguide 290 is able to fit into the guideway 390 and able to propel thesupport cup 500 through the holder's channel 314. FIG. 9E shows theposition of the support cup 500 after it has propelled some distanceupward through the holder's channel 314.

Though the foregoing description of this feature is illustrated withonly one guideway 390 proximal to the holder's first slot 322 a and aguide 290 proximal to the first hinge 224 a, the applicator device 100can be alternatively designed such that there is a second guideway and asecond guide proximal respectively to the holder second slot 322 b andto the second hinge 224 b. Such an addition would further stabilize theapplicator device 100 during use.

FIGS. 10A-11B show yet another embodiment comprising a closure thatfurther stabilizes the applicator device 100 when it is in a closedposition. Though there are different designs of closures that may beemployed, what is shown in reference to FIGS. 10A-11B is a simplemechanical snap mechanism.

FIG. 10A shows an isometric view of a closure female section 295positioned in the underside 214 of the outer shell 200 proximal to theback opening 240. FIG. 10A also shows a closure male section 395 on thetop surface 310 of the holder 300 proximal to the back side 340. In FIG.10A, the outer shell 200 is rotating relative to the holder 300 towardsa closed position. FIG. 10B shows a partial cross-sectional detailedview of the relevant area demonstrating the closure female section 295about to engage with the closure male section 395. FIG. 11A shows theapplicator device 100 in a fully closed position with the closuresections completely engaged. FIG. 11B shows a partial cross-sectionaldetailed view of the relevant area demonstrating the engaged closuresections.

Referring now to FIGS. 12A-12D, a set of cross-sectional views furtherdescribes the applicator device 100 when pressure is exerted on eitherside of outer shell's first and second arms.

FIG. 12A is a front view of the outer shell 200 demonstrating thebending angles of the first arm 220 a and the second arm 220 b whenpressure is exerted in directions symbolized by the shown pair ofarrows. The angles a° and −a° represent the respective angle by whichthe first and second arms distort upon compressive force.

FIG. 12B shows the fully assembled applicator device 100 where the outershell 200 has rotated 180 degrees with respect to the holder 300. Theview in FIG. 12B is directed toward the front of the outer shell 200 andthe holder 300 has not yet propelled the product 400 forward.

FIG. 12C shows the outer shell 200 having pushed the product partiallythrough the orifice 312 of the holder 300. Pressure is exerted in thedirections demonstrated by the arrows which in turn causes the arms'interiors to compress against the first and second sides of the holder300. These compressive forces, as shown by the arrows in FIGS. 12C and12D would usually be exerted by the user's fingers as the product isapplied and by virtue of friction between the outer shell's arms againstthe holder's first and second sides, prevent the holder 300 from slidinglongitudinally relative to the outer shell 200.

FIGS. 13A-13D demonstrate the same feature as illustrated in FIGS.12A-12D, except that a set of notches 296 are built into one or bothsides of the outer shell's arms and a set of protrusions 396 are builtinto the first and second sides of the holder 300 to assist the relevantcompressive forces in stabilizing the applicator 100. It is to be notedthat there are various designs for notches and protrusion mechanism thatcan be employed to achieve this result.

Illustrated in FIG. 13A is an isometric view of the applicator device100 with a set of notches 296 on either side of the first and secondinteriors and a set of protrusions 396 extending from the holder's firstand second sides.

The applicator device 100 as shown in FIG. 13B corresponds to what isshown in FIG. 12C but the holder's built-in protrusions 396 have engagedwith the notches 296 built on the arms of the outer shell 200. Aspressure is applied in the direction of the arrows, the arms compressagainst the holder and stabilize the applicator device 100. It is alsoshown in FIG. 13B that the holder's protrusions 396 can engage with thenotches 296 at various locations longitudinally along the arms'interiors. Therefore, the holder's longitudinal position can be adjustedrelative to the outer shell 200.

FIG. 13C shows a partial cutaway and magnified detail of the areacomprising the engagement of the notch and the protrusion.

FIG. 13D corresponds to FIG. 12B but with the holder 300 havingprotrusions 396 and the outer shell having notches 296. The arrowindicates the position where the notches engage with the protrusions ascompressive pressure is applied.

It is apparent from descriptions as shown in FIGS. 13A-13D that theaddition of this feature accentuates the efficacy of the compressiveforces between the arms of the outer shell 200 and the holder 300.Though this embodiment shows the notches built within the arms'interiors and the protrusions built on the holder's first and secondside, it is obvious that the protrusions can be built on the arms'interiors and the notches built along the holder's sides. Furthermore,circular indentations can be substituted for notches; this latter designoption as well as other configurations could be preferred to improve theoverall aesthetic appeal of the applicator device.

FIGS. 14A-14B show isometric views showing assembly of the holder 300and the support cup 500 components of the applicator device 100. Whenthe support cup 500 is circularly shaped, the support cup can rotatefreely within the channel 314 of the holder 300 and make it difficult toalign the support cup's first and second recesses with the holder'sfirst and second slots. Accordingly, an oval shaped support cup and acorresponding oval orifice on the holder can provide an improvedstructure. In particular, any non-circularly shaped support cup can bedesigned such that the support cup's recesses naturally align with thecorresponding slots during assembly.

FIG. 14A shows a support cup 500 whose profile is oval shaped. Theholder's corresponding orifice 312 is similarly oval shaped such thatthe support cup 500 can fit through the orifice and move through theholder's channel without rotation. The support cup's first recess 512 ais conveniently aligned to the holder's first slot 322 a. FIG. 14B showsthe oval shaped support cup 500 inserted within the holder 300 and thefirst recess 512 a visible through the first slot 322 a such that thefirst hinge 224 a can engage with it.

Alternatively, FIGS. 15A-15B show isometric views of the assembly of theholder 300 and the support cup 500 where a square shape is used for thesupport cup 500 and a corresponding square orifice and channel areprovided on the holder 300. As shown in FIGS. 13A-13B, the non-circularprofile makes it easier to orient the first recess 512 a with theholder's first slot 322 a. It is obvious from FIGS. 14A-15B that anynon-circularly shaped support cup profile would allow easier orientationof the support cup recesses to the holder's slots during the assemblyprocess.

Referring now to FIGS. 16A-18, various methods to hold the product 400within the support cup 500 of the applicator device 100 are illustrated.Instead of inserting a solid product into a support cup, a wax orsemi-solid product can be pierced with a stake 530 protruding from a topplatform 522 as shown in FIGS. 16A-16B. The top platform 522 replacesthe top opening 520 where the solid product was previously inserted andthe side wall 510 continues to comprise the first recess 512 a and thesecond recess 512 b such that the outer shell's hinges can engage withthe support cup.

Alternatively, the solid product can be wedged between a set of pillars540 protruding from the platform 522 as shown in FIGS. 17A-17B. Evenfurther, another method of containing the product within or on thesupport cup 500 would be to glue a foam applicator 410 or otherreticulated material to the surface of the top platform 522 and embedthe surface with liquid product. It is obvious that other vehicles forcontaining product may be incorporated into the applicator device 100,choice of which would depend on application and type of product.

Referring now to FIGS. 19A-19B, isometric views of a seal 600 areillustrated. FIG. 19A is a top isometric view of the seal 600 showing aseal cover 610 and a seal tube 620. FIG. 19B is a bottom isometric viewof the seal 600 showing a tube cavity 630 constructed within the sealtube 620.

Referring now to the sealing feature of the applicator device, FIG. 20Ashows an exploded view of relevant components of the applicator andtheir mutual relationships. The seal tube 620 is inserted around theexterior of the support cup 500 and through the orifice 312 and into theholder's channel 314. The product 400 simultaneously fits into the tubecavity 630. In FIG. 20A, the outer shell 200 is not shown.

FIG. 20B shows how the seal 600 is fitted over the holder 300 and theseal tube 620 fits through the orifice 312 forming an orifice-tubesealing feature. The orifice-tube seal is dimensioned such that thereare no gaps through which air can travel. The outer shell 200 is shownin this figure, having rotated 180 degrees relative to the holder 300.

FIG. 20C is a cross-sectional view formed by a plane cutting midwaybetween the first and second sides of the holder 300 and revealing therelationship between the critical components of a sealed applicatordevice. The outside hatched component is the holder 300. Inserted withinthe holder 300 is the seal tube 620 as described in FIG. 20B. The lowerportion of the seal tube 620 is dimensioned such that the outer surfaceof the support cup's side wall 510 fills within the tube cavity 630 anda support cup-tube seal 631 is formed between the support cup 500 andthe seal 600. The height of the tube cavity 630 is such that the product400 can fit within its confines and the seal tube 620 can engage withthe support cup's side wall 510 when the seal 600 is completely insertedwithin the channel 314 of the holder 300 and the seal cover 610 laysdirectly on top of the holder's top surface 310. Assuming the componentscontain no perforations other than those described hitherto, the product400 is now completely sealed within the confines of the support cup 500and the seal 600.

FIG. 20D is an isometric drawing of the closed and sealed applicatordevice with the outer shell cover 210 rotated over the seal cover 610.It should be noted that in this embodiment, the arms of the outer shellwill be dimensioned slightly longer than in previously describedembodiments in order to accommodate the added thickness of the sealcover 610 when the applicator device is completely closed.

Referring now to another embodiment, FIG. 21A is an isometric viewshowing an outer shell 700 and a platform 760 of an exemplary two-pieceapplicator device. Similar to the outer shell 200 shown in FIG. 2A, thisouter shell 700 consists of a cover 710 that is angled relative to itslongitudinal axis. It has a first arm 720 a and a second arm 720 b, afirst interior 722 a and a second interior 722 b, an underside 712 ofthe cover 710, a first base 730 a and a second base 730 b of therespective arms and a front opening 740 and a back opening 750. Thefirst hinge 224 a and second hinge 224 b protrusions shown in FIG. 2Aare replaced by living hinges 702 which connect to both sides of theplatform 760.

FIG. 21B shows a partial isometric magnified view of the platform 760.The platform 760 is connected to the outer shell's first and secondinteriors by virtue of a pair of living hinges 702. Each living hinge iscomprised of three sections: a relatively flat platform connector 762which is attached to the platform 760, an outer shell connector 766which is attached to the outer shell arm's interiors and a bridge 764which connects the platform connector 762 to the outer shell connector.The living hinges 702 are relatively flat compared to the height of theplatform 760 and have an overall profile shape similar to an hourglass,with the narrow section of the hourglass being the bridge 764. Theliving hinges 702 can twist at the thinnest section being the bridge764. On one flat side of the platform is a stake 768 that is designed topierce and hold a product after filling.

FIG. 21C is an isometric top view of a holder 800 and FIG. 21D is anisometric bottom view of the same holder 800. Similar to the holder 300as shown in FIG. 2B, there is a top surface 810, an orifice 812, achannel 814, a first slot 822 a and a second slot 822 b, a front side830, a back side 840, and a first side 820 a and a second side 820 b.The bottom view clearly shows a bottom surface 850, a bottom opening 852and two slits 854 positioned on opposite sides of the bottom opening852. It will be shown in FIGS. 24-25 how the two slits extend into thefirst and second slots to allow assembly of the outer shell 700 to theholder 800.

FIGS. 22A-22B show cross-sectional front views of the exemplarytwo-piece applicator device illustrating how the product 400 iscontained therein. The top sections of the drawings show thecross-sections of the holder 800. The drawings are cut longitudinallythrough the center of the first and second sides of the holder 800revealing the first slot 822 a and the second slot 822 b, the orifice812, the bottom opening 852, and the holder's channel 814. The bottomportions of the drawings show the cross-sections of the outer shell 700fully rotated to an open position and the platform 760 and the stake 768facing in an upward direction. The living hinges 702 extend through thefirst and second slots and connect to the outer shell 700.

Referring now to FIGS. 23A-23F, a sequence of isometric drawings of anexemplary two-piece applicator in various positions as it progressesfrom a completely closed position to an open position is illustrated. Ineach of the FIGS. 23A-23F is shown a corresponding isometric magnifieddetail of a platform portion of the applicator and its rotation relativeto living hinges. For purpose of clarity, a holder is shown to betransparent so that the position of the platform and product can beclearly viewed.

FIG. 23A shows the applicator device in a closed position. For example,the holder 800, the product 400 and the platform 760 are completelycovered by the outer shell 700. The platform 760 of FIG. 23A is shownimmediately below, including the platform connectors 762, the bridges764 and the outer shell connectors 766 all facing in an upwarddirection. The stake 768 is shown to be perpendicular to the platform'supper surface.

FIG. 23B shows the applicator device as the holder 800 begins to rotaterelative to the outer shell 700. The platform 760 and the stake 768 ofFIG. 23B rotate about the bridges 764 of the living hinges 702 andrelative to the outer shell connectors 766. The flat side of the outershell connectors 766 remain facing in an upward direction as indicatedby the pair of arrows, while the flat surfaces of the other componentsface in a different angular direction. The outer shell connectors 766 donot move relative to the outer shell 700.

FIGS. 23C-23E show the holder 800, the product 400 and the platform 760continue to rotate relative to the outer shell 700 until the applicatordevice is in a completely open position. The lower magnified isometricdrawings of FIGS. 23C-23E show the respective position of the platform760, the platform connectors 762 and the stake 768 as they continue torotate about the bridges 764 and relative to the outer shell connectors766.

FIG. 23F shows the outer shell 700 push the platform 760 and propel theproduct 400 along the holder's channel 814 and through the holder'sorifice 812. Because the design incorporates living hinges, the outershell must be constructed out of a flexible material such aspolypropylene.

Referring now to FIGS. 24A-24B, top and bottom isometric views of theholder 800 of the two-piece applicator device illustrating how it can beopened to allow insertion and assembly of the outer shell 700, is shown.

FIG. 24A shows the bottom surface 850 of the holder 800 facing upwardsto reveal the pair of slits 854 and the bottom opening 852. The holder800 is pulled open in the directions of the opposing arrows so that theslits form an entrance for the outer shell 700 into the first slot 822 aand the second slot 822 b. FIG. 24B shows the same view with the pair ofslits 854 reclosed. It is assumed that the slits 854 may be sealedtogether either mechanically using, for example, a tongue and groovepair, adhesive, or sonic or thermal sealing. As with the outer shell700, the material of the holder 800 must be constructed out of aflexible material such as polypropylene.

FIGS. 25A-25E show a sequence of isometric drawing segments of thetwo-piece applicator device as the outer shell 700 and the platform 760are assembled to the holder 800. The holder 800 is shown with the bottomopening 850 facing upwards and the holder 800 is stretched open at inthe direction of the arrows separating the holder 800 into two at theslits 854. The open slits lead into the respective slots and are opensufficiently wide to allow insertion of the living hinges 702 and theplatform 760 as shown in FIG. 25B. FIG. 25C shows the holder's slits 854now sealed together, the living hinges 702 completely inserted withinthe respective slots and the platform 760 within the channel 814. FIG.25D shows the outer shell 700 rotating relative to the holder 800 towarda closed position. Finally, FIG. 25E shows the two-piece applicatordevice in a completely closed position.

FIGS. 26A-26G are various views that show an alternative way to preventthe holder from moving longitudinally relative to the shell when thedevice is closed. The holder contains an indentation or hole that lockswith a corresponding peg located the outer shell when closed.

FIG. 26A shows the side view of the holder 300 with the holder's firstside 320 a containing a first indentation 350 a.

FIG. 26B shows the outer shell 200 containing a first peg 270 aprotruding from the outer shell's first arm 220 a. There is a firsthinge 224 a located toward the bottom of the holder's first side 320 a.The first peg 270 a is configured such that it engages the firstindentation 350 a when the device is in a closed position. Though onlythe first side and the first arm of the device are described ascontaining these features, it is understood that the device can performas described with or without corresponding indentation and pegincorporated on respectively the holder's second side and the outershell's second arm.

FIG. 26C shows the device where the outer shell is about to closeagainst the holder as it rotates about the axis of the first hinge 224a. The first peg 270 a is not yet proximal to the holder 300.

FIG. 26D shows the outer shell further rotating towards a closedposition but the first peg 270 a is now proximal to the holder as itcontinues to rotate about the first hinge 224 a and migrates towards thefirst indentation 205 a.

FIG. 26E shows the front view of the device. Also shown is the outershell's first peg 270 a, second peg 270 b protruding respectively from asufficiently bent first arm 220 a and second arm. This occurs because asthe pegs move proximal to the holder, they are temporarily pushed outrespectively by the holder's first side 320 a and second side 320 b, inthe directions of the shown arrows. Hence, the outer shell arms areconstructed of a material suitably flexible to allow for thisaccommodation.

FIG. 26F shows a side view of the device in a closed position. The firstpeg 270 a is engaged with the first indention 350 a.

FIG. 26G shows a front view of the device with the outer shell's firstarm 220 a and second arm 220 b in its unbent position.

FIGS. 27A-27F depict an embodiment wherein the lower position of theholder's guideway is configured such that it beneficially locks with theguide when the device is in a closed position.

FIG. 27A shows the back opening 240 view of the outer shell 200 fromwhich protrudes a first guide 290 a from which protrudes a first hinge224 a.

FIG. 27B shows a first guideway 390 a inscribed in a holder 300.

FIG. 27C shows a view of the holder's 300 first side 320 a into which isinscribed a first guideway 390 a. The lower portion 394 of the guideway390 a contains a lock section 393 of height K and length R, at anapproximate distance T from the holder's back side 340.

FIG. 27D shows a first side view of the device were the relevantcomponents of the holder 300 are superimposed onto the outer shell 200(bold outline) while the device is in a closed and locked position. Thefirst guide 290 a is engaged with the first guideway 390 a such that theedges of both are positioned at an approximate distance T from theholder back side 340. In this position, a substantial portion of thefirst guide 290 a is positioned within the lock section 393, such thatthe holder 300 is prevented from moving downwards, relative to the outershell 200.

FIG. 27E shows the superimposed holder 300 and outer shell 200 where theouter shell has been rotated clockwise about the first hinge 224 a awayfrom the holder. The first guide 290 a is now disengaged from the lockedsection 393 but still within the area of the lower portion 394 of thefirst guideway 390 a.

FIG. 27F shows the outer shell 200 sufficiently rotated from the holder300, such that it can now move in a direction determined by the firstguide 290 a engagement along the first guideway 390 a.

It should be understood that though the features described in FIGS.27A-27F show exemplary interactions between a first guide and a firstguideway, it is clear that the device can be designed with acorresponding second guide and second guideway on respectively thesecond arm of the outer shell and second side of the holder. Furthermorethe drawing shows an outer shell with a slanted top allowing a clockwiserotational movement of the shell relative to the holder. Otherconfigurations can be designed that are included within the scope of theinvention described herein. For instance, the top of the outer shell andholder can be flat and the outer shell can rotate counter clockwise aswell as clockwise.

Although illustrative embodiments have been described herein withreference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that theinvention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that variousother changes and modifications may be made by one skilled in the artwithout departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a body having a firsttop surface including an opening, a cavity extending away from theopening of the first top surface, and a first side and a second sideincluding a first slot and a second slot, respectively, cut through thefirst and second sides; a cover having a second top surface, a first armand a second arm extending away from the second top surface, and firstand second hinges installed on the first and second arms, respectively;a container having side walls, an inner-body opening configured toreceive a product, and first and second recesses inscribed on oppositesides of the container in the side walls; and an indentation or hole onat least one of the first and second sides of the body and a peg on atleast one of the corresponding first and second arms of the cover suchthat when the indentation or hole engages with the peg, the cover isprevented from moving longitudinally with respect to the body, whereinthe container is slidably fitted inside the cavity of the body and thecover is hingedly coupled to the body via the first and second hinges ofthe cover, wherein the first and second hinges protrude through thefirst and second slots of the body and engage with the first and secondrecesses of the container, respectively, and the cover and the containerare slidable together in a longitudinal direction along the cavity ofthe body, and wherein the body is configured to allow the cover and thecontainer to slide in the longitudinal direction only after the cover isrotated away from a position in which the opening is covered.
 2. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a male closure section eitheron the first top surface of the body or on an underside of the secondtop surface of the cover and a female closure section on the other ofthe first top surface or the underside of the second top surface.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and second top surfaces areslanted with a predetermined angular offset.
 4. The apparatus of claim1, wherein the apparatus is in a closed position when the first topsurface and the second top surface are aligned.
 5. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the cover is transparent.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the cavity comprises a section configured to allow rotation ofthe cover, the section located distally from the opening.
 7. Anapparatus comprising: a body having a first top surface including anopening, a cavity extending away from the opening of the first topsurface, and a first side and a second side including a first slot and asecond slot, respectively, cut through the first and second sides; acover having a second top surface, a first arm and a second armextending away from the second top surface, and first and second hingesinstalled on the first and second arms, respectively; a container havingside walls, an inner-body opening configured to receive a product, andfirst and second recesses inscribed on opposite sides of the containerin the side walls; and a guideway inscribed into at least one of thefirst and second sides of the body and dimensionally configured suchthat when said guideway is engaged with the corresponding arms of thecover while in a closed position, the cover is prevented from movinglongitudinally with respect to the body, wherein the container isslidably fitted inside the cavity of the body and the cover is hingedlycoupled to the body via the first and second hinges of the cover,wherein the first and second hinges protrude through the first andsecond slots of the body and engage with the first and second recessesof the container, respectively, and the cover and the container areslidable together in a longitudinal direction along the cavity of thebody, and wherein the body is configured to allow the cover andcontainer to slide in the longitudinal direction only after the cover isrotated away from a position in which the opening is covered.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 7, wherein a guide in at least one of the first andsecond arms is offset from alignment with the corresponding guidewaywhen the cover is in a closed position, preventing the cover from movingin the longitudinal direction.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein theguide is in alignment with the corresponding guideway when the cover isin an open position, allowing the cover to move in the longitudinaldirection.
 10. An apparatus comprising: a body having a first topsurface including an opening, a cavity extending away from the openingof the first top surface, and a first side and a second side including afirst slot and a second slot, respectively, cut through the first andsecond sides; a cover having a second top surface, a first arm and asecond arm extending away from the second top surface, and first andsecond hinges installed on the first and second arms, respectively; acontainer having side walls, an inner-body opening configured to receivea product, and first and second recesses inscribed on opposite sides ofthe container in the side walls; and a peg embedded into at least one ofthe first and second sides of the body and dimensionally configured suchthat when said peg is engaged with a groove in the corresponding arm ofthe cover while in a closed position, the cover is prevented from movinglongitudinally with respect to the body, wherein the container isslidably fitted inside the cavity of the body and the cover is hingedlycoupled to the body via the first and second hinges of the cover,wherein the first and second hinges protrude through the first andsecond slots of the body and engage with the first and second recessesof the container, respectively, and the cover and the container areslidable together in a longitudinal direction along the cavity of thebody, and wherein the body is configured to allow the cover and thecontainer to slide in the longitudinal direction only after the cover isrotated away from a position in which the opening is covered.
 11. Theapparatus of claim 10, wherein the peg is in alignment with thecorresponding groove when the cover is in an open position, allowing thecover to move in the longitudinal direction.